With the U-16 INTERNATIONAL DREAM CUP 2019 JAPAN presented by Asahi Shimbun kicking off on the following day, the four participating teams gathered at a welcome reception held in Sendai City on Tuesday 11 June.

At the reception, JFA General Secretary SUHARA Kiyotaka gave a speech where he mentioned, “We truly hope to see the future stars of the World Cup rise from each team. As the host, we will give our utmost efforts to support the tournament’s success.” Deputy Mayor TAKAHASHI Shinichi of Sendai City followed by stating, “Your passionate plays will teach the people of Sendai the joy of football and give us dreams and hopes. We hope that you will not only compete on the pitch, but to engage in cultural exchange off the pitch as well.”

Following the speeches, each team presented their traditional songs and dances on the stage. Players from other teams were seen joining the stage to engage in cultural exchange, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the reception.

The local hospitality group “Date-Bushotai” took the stage to conclude the reception, allowing the participants to dance along with the live performance. Each team were given the opportunity to strengthen their team bond ahead of the competition scheduled from the following day.

The U-16 INTERNATIONAL DREAM CUP 2019 JAPAN presented by Asahi Shimbun will kick-off on Wednesday 12 June at Yurtec Stadium Sendai. The first match between the U-16 Nigeria National Team and the U-16 Mexico National Team will take place at 15:00, followed by the match between the U-16 Japan National Team and the U-16 Romania National Team at 18:00.

Players’ Comments

FW #9 KATSUSHIMA Shinnosuke (U-16 Japan National Team)
Rather than just watching, I thought it would be fun to join the other team’s performances, so I went up there and joined them. I have always known about this tournament and I was looking forward to participating in it. I will do my best to enjoy myself while striving to win the matches.

GK Robert POPA (U-16 Romania National Team)
We were able hear and watch the traditional music and dances from each country, and I had a lot of fun dancing with players from other teams. The final performance showcased by the Samurais was awesome. This has become a night I will never forget!

U-16 INTERNATIONAL DREAM CUP 2019 JAPAN presented by Asahi Shimbun

Tournament Dates: Wed. 12 - Sun. 16 June 2019
Tournament Venue: Yurtec Stadium Sendai, Miyagi

Tournament Information